The US Air Force has officially concluded A-10C Thunderbolt II operations at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. The final flight on July 29, 2026, ended nearly 50 years of history for the iconic close-air-support platform at the installation.
Known for its robust airframe and the distinctive GAU-8 Avenger cannon, the A-10 has served as a specialized tool for ground support since its introduction. While the 357th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan previously functioned as the primary training unit for the type, that pipeline concluded earlier this year. The facility is now shifting focus toward rescue missions and special operations units, including the integration of the OA-1K and MC-130J.
Despite the departure from Arizona, the A-10 remains in service elsewhere. While the Air Force previously sought to retire the fleet, recent combat requirements have extended the program’s lifecycle. Current plans maintain active-duty and reserve squadrons at Moody Air Force Base and Whiteman Air Force Base, respectively. These units are expected to operate the aircraft through 2030, balancing ongoing operational demands with the service’s transition to new mission capabilities.